The SiOO X Story – Protecting the Planet - Book - Page 18
Different solutions have been tried in many different countries
– dipping cladding timbers in hot tar for example, has been
a long-established approach in Finland, whilst the Shou Sugi
Ban technique of charring wood to create a protective surface
layer is a traditional method used in Japan has more recently attracted the attention of architects throughout the world,
although often more for its aesthetic appearance than for its
effectiveness in resisting the weather conditions prevailing in
differing climatic zones.
others, with many involving the inclusion of highly toxic substances. Concern in recent years over the eco toxicity of some of the
chemicals used in these latter technologies has resulted in most
being outlawed in major regulatory territories around the globe.
It is in the subsequent exploratory pursuit of non-biocidal treatments that caused the Sioo company to be formed in the final
years of the 20th century, with its singular focus on a rigorous
scientific search for an effective way to protect and enhance
wood when used externally and which would be based entirely
upon lessons from nature. In other words, a genuinely biomimetic solution to environmental imperatives then emerging
for the 21st century.
Throughout the centuries, numerous chemical-based options
have also been concocted – again, some more successful than
Villa Moelven is a showpiece project of Moelven, the biggest wood manufacturing company of Norway. It is a homage to the natural material of wood
and was built in a traditional way. It shows that there is no need to compromise in design or comfort when building a green and energy efficient house.
Architect: Widjedal Racki.
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